Thoughts

Sustainable Home Care: Choosing a Greener Lifestyle

By Jay Lynn · Thoughts · September 22, 2023

Plastic free bathroom items laid out on marble, including bamboo toothbrushes, wooden brushes, a safety razor and reusable cotton rounds

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only link to things I actually use and recommend.

Single-use is so yesterday. In a world increasingly aware of our environmental footprint, a new wave of brands and products is reshaping how we approach our day-to-day lives. And yes traveling can be very wasteful when it comes to what I call “short-use items”. EG: the mini toiletries and amenities in hotel rooms, the travel meals that come in disposable packaging, the items we buy for the trip and can’t bring home so they end up half used in the trash. You get the idea. These eco-conscious alternatives not only reduce waste but also redefine the way we interact with our living spaces. Here are some sustainable home care and travel solutions that are sure to revolutionize your routine and habits.

1. Refillable Revolution: Cutting Out Single-Use Containers

Refill stores are sprouting up in cities worldwide, offering a range of household products in bulk. From laundry detergents to dish soaps, this new wave of refill stores encourage customers to bring their own containers, minimizing plastic waste. Additionally, some progressive grocery stores have started offering refill stations, allowing you to replenish your cleaning supplies in a more sustainable manner. Start saving those jars and empty containers and start refilling! For Travel I love these leak proof silicone travel tubes.

  1. Mini Spa, Maximum Sustainability: Travel-sized Refillable Containers For those jetting off on adventures, travel-sized toiletries often mean an excess of tiny plastic bottles. Enter the new generation of refillable travel containers. Made from durable materials, these compact companions can be filled with your favorite shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. Not only do they help you travel light, but they also contribute to a lighter environmental footprint.

  2. Laundry, the Green Way: Travel-friendly Washing Solutions Doing laundry while traveling can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to lugging around detergent bottles. Enter laundry sheets, compact and lightweight, they dissolve in water and get your clothes fresh and clean. Alternatively, consider packing a small container of powdered detergent. These eco-friendly options are perfect for the sustainable traveler on the go.

  3. BYOU: Bring Your Own Utensils: Airport food can be a guilty pleasure, but it often comes with a side of plastic cutlery. To counter this, consider carrying your own set of reusable utensils. Lightweight and compact, they easily slip into your carry-on, ensuring that you can enjoy your meal guilt-free, wherever you are.

  4. Hydration, Sustainably Sipped: The Water Bottle Revolution Disposable plastic water bottles have long been a scourge on the environment. By investing in a durable, refillable water bottle, you not only reduce plastic waste but also have access to clean, sustainable hydration wherever you go. Many airports and public spaces now have water refill stations, making it easier than ever to stay eco-conscious on the move.

Avocados and a jar of almonds spilling from an orange string shopping bag against a yellow background

A Sustainable Future Starts at Home. The transition towards a more sustainable lifestyle begins with small, intentional choices. Whether you’re heading to the farmers market or on vacation, by adopting these eco-friendly practices, you’re cutting waste and joining a bigger shift toward living more consciously. These alternatives are not only good for the planet but also for your own well-being, creating a home environment that is both nurturing and sustainable. So, let’s bid farewell to single-use and welcome a greener tomorrow!

← Back to all storiesFiled under: Thoughts